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Car Fire Safety Tips

Thursday, 17 August 2017 00:00
Written by Staff Reporter

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) on average, a car catches fire every 4 minutes! And with more drivers hitting the roads this summer (according to AAA) due to a growing economy and low gasoline prices, the importance of car fire safety becomes increasingly important.

Cars can catch fire for many reasons. Mechanical or electrical issues are the most common cause. A car can also catch fire as the result of a bad crash. If you see smoke or flames or smell burning rubber or plastic, respond immediately.

Most car fluids are flammable. Heat and electrical sparks plus leaking fluid are all it takes to start a car fire. Although most crashes do NOT result in fire, in the event of any crash, call 9-1-1. If there is no sign of fire, wait for emergency assistance to help any injured individuals out of the car.

What To Do If Your Car Is On Fire

Pull over as quickly as it is safe to do so, be sure to use your signal as you make your way to a safe location off the road such as the breakdown lane or rest stop.

Once you have stopped, TURN OFF the engine.

Get everyone out of the car. Never return to a burning car to retrieve anything.

Move everyone at least 100 feet from the burning car and well away from traffic.

Call 911.

How To Prevent A Car Fire

Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you spot leaks, your car is not running properly, get it checked. A well-maintained car is less likely to have a fire.

If you must transport gasoline, transport only a small amount in a certified gas can that is sealed. Keep a window open for ventilation.

Gas cans and propane cylinders should never be transported in the passenger compartment.

Never park a car where flammables, such as grass, are touching the catalytic converter.

Drive safely to avoid an accident.

Know The Danger Signs

Cracked or loose wiring or electrical problems, including a fuse that blows more than once

Main-Transit Fire Department Steak Out

RESERVE YOUR TICKETS NOW!Tickets $25 pre-sale if purchased or reserved by May 27th.($30 at the door)

Dinner includes:

Succulent 10 oz. New York Strip Steak (Chicken and vegetarian option also available)

Vegetable & Mashed Potato Bar

Fresh Tossed Salad

Dessert!!!!!!!

2 FREE Alcoholic Beverages

FREE Soda and Water

Entertainment!

LIVE Music with Nite Cruise!

Over 100 Door Prizes!

(automatic entry with every ticket)

Chinese Auction Prizes!

Evening Bonfire!

Limited tickets available -- purchase your tickets now!

For more information, call 632-9710 ext.113 or RESERVE your tickets at tickets@mtfd.com.

Prevent fires from home heating equipment

Tuesday, 31 January 2017 00:00

Guidelines to help prevent fires from home heating equipment

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) issued a Safety Alert advising homeowners and businesses throughout New York State that heavy snowfall and drifting snow may create a new hazard: carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, dangerous gas, commonly known as CO.

Fire PreventionTo prevent fires, keep furnishings and other combustibles 36 inches from all heating sources. A heating source too close to combustibles is the leading cause of fires due to home heating. Store matches and other fire starting appliances out of the reach of children. Fires started by children often have tragic results.

Review the owner's manual to make sure you remember the operating and safety features.

Space Heaters - When using portable heaters, do not place them where it is possible for small children or pets to fall against them or to receive a contact burn. Avoid the use of extension cords with electric heaters. Always turn off space heaters before leaving the room or going to bed.

Fuel Burning Appliances - When taking a heater out of storage in the fall, install batteries and inspect the shut off mechanism and wick for proper operation. Fill the tank with fresh fuel. Let the heater cool down before refueling. Adding fuel to a hot heater can start a dangerous fire.

Wood Burning Appliances and Fireplaces - Do not burn trash in the wood stove or fireplace. Burn only well-seasoned hardwoods. Be sure the fire you build fits your fireplace or stove, don't overload it. Be sure wood stoves are installed at least 36 inches away from the wall. Keep combustible materials well away from the fireplace, stove and chimney. Keep the area around them clean. Always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from leaving the fireplace and starting a fire. Never leave a fire unattended.

Chimneys - Creosote accumulation is the leading cause of chimney fires. A chimney that is dirty, blocked or is in disrepair can inhibit proper venting of smoke up the flue and can also cause a chimney fire. Nearly all residential fires originating in the chimney are preventable. An annual chimney inspection by a qualified chimney sweep can prevent fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Ashes - Keep wood stoves and fireplaces free of excess ash buildup. Excessive ash buildup prevents good circulation of air needed for combustion. When removing ashes, use a metal container with a tight-fitting cover. Always place ashes in an outside location away from structures. Ashes that seem cool may contain a smoldering charcoal that can start a fire.

Be Prepared - No matter how careful you are with home heating, you and your family should be prepared in case fire strikes.

The Explorers

Fostering the Future of Our Youth & Community

Developing support for volunteer fire and community service is an ongoing dedication at Main-Transit Fire Department. The Explorers is our youth program designed to help develop the formation of positive relationships and a sense of belonging to something greater than ones self, for youths ages 14-18 years of age.

Softball League

Strength in Teamwork

Our softball games are played on Friday evenings followed by get-together between departments players, members, family and fans. This has helped establish a close friendship amongst neighboring departments that often work together in mutual aid.